One of two directors required to resign by rotation this year, Hadlee, 66, had signalled he wouldn't seek an extension to his four-year term, NZC announced today.

Liz Dawson, who will also resign by rotation, has opted to stand for re-election.

Hadlee said his tenure coincided with a watershed time for NZC - particularly in terms of a new strategic direction and a new approach to the relationship between women and cricket.

"I've been particularly impressed with the determination and commitment within the board towards making the game more relevant and accessible to all New Zealanders - regardless of gender, ethnicity, or socio-economic status," he said.

NZC chairman Greg Barclay said Hadlee had contributed across all areas of the organisation and his experience and knowledge of the game would be missed.

"Sir Richard has been a highly respected member of our High Performance Advisory Group, and a staunch advocate of progressing the women's game."

Considered New Zealand's finest cricketer, Hadlee took 431 Test wickets and scored 3124 runs between 1973 and 1990. He later became chairman of selectors.